Day 19, morning

Still another day of hopeful, then wait-and-see news. Kathy’s ultrasound readings yesterday showed more signs of abating, and we’re hopeful that will bode well for no new stroke in that affected area of her brain, and for an easing of the nagging persistence of her intracranial pressure, which continues to require medical intervention and now constitutes Kathy’s main impediment to recovery.  She struggled again last night with them, but the maximum dosage of manitol kept them under control. Kathy’s challenges keep rearing their ugly heads, and she keeps meeting them with her usual aplomb. I would be honored to know any person who could do battle on so many fronts, and for so long, and for such a worthy cause, with such mighty grace.

I do know two such people, two women of the strongest constitution, who have fought through a terrible war lasting many years, waging battle after battle against what is perhaps the most horrific scourge of our times in America. They won that war, and now are standing by Kathy’s and my side supporting us in this new encounter. I am humbled at the thought of what they have overcome.

Yesterday our longtime, close friend CT came by for a visit. CT’s lovely wife of many years passed away a few years ago after a prolonged battle with cancer. Before Mary got sick I told many people that she and Kathy could have been born twins in angelhood. I want CT’s fortitude in the face of life’s uncertainty. I don’t know that I’m capable.

But I will say this. If you find yourself in a place of distress and fear, and you need a helping hand, a ride, a prayer, a visit, hopeful words, or a testimonial from someone who has trudged along, eyes to the sidewalk and muttering to himself on a path from fear into faith – I would never have believed it of me, but it has happened – I could be your guy.

Naively, I thought Kathy and I had arrived. But there’s work ahead.

Abby and Paige: you are my inspiration.

13 Comments on Day 19, morningStill another day of hopeful, then

  1. “Hail Mary full of grace, the Lord is with thee, blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death, Amen.”

    While we are on the subject of “full of grace” … Come on Kathy!

  2. Hail the power of the Twins Abby and Paige at your side! I am up sipping coffee doing dishes..cutting lavender to bring to Finney for market..Blessings for your day,praise the powers of the mannitol drip.. I will be sewing quilt squares together this afternoon..I find myself praying with every prayer flag that I connect..Love Love Love…Stacy

  6. Morro Bay sending many thoughts and prayers , once a day, everyday, all day long

  7. Richard, even before Kathy’s illness, you have been that person to me through my distress and fear. All the people surrounding you now with prayer, faith, good wishes and love are there because you have always been that man. Now you are opening further to let even more of it flow through you…and all of it–from the universe, from God, from all of us–is flowing through you to Kathy.

  10. Proverbs 3: 5-6
    Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

    Thank you for taking the time to keep us updated. You are in our prayers!

  11. May the Lord our God lay His healing hands on Kathy. May He guide Kathy’s doctors and help them make the right decisions regarding Kathy’s care. May Kathy feel renewed strength and healing with each moment, and may she and her family feel the strength and peace being asked to God on their behalf. Amen.

    I haven’t seen Kathy in 5 or 6 years, when we both worked in the same department at the hospital. Kathy, you are a talented, hard-working professional nurse. But more than that, you are a strong, intelligent, and kind woman. I pray for you and your health, and I want you to know I’m thinking about you and wish good things for you now and always. Take what strength you need from all who are offering it to you. Strength and love is no good unless it is shared selflessly.

  12. Thinking of you Kathy so much…prayers and love to you and your family. Come on Kathy u can do this I know you can!!!

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